Eggs are a well known source of protein and vitamins with the most questionable background. Medical studies that have been conducted over the last 10 years shows that no one is certain about the answer as there are a number of variable that be factors. What makes up an egg? The white part of the eggs are widely known to be an eggcellent source of protein and nutrients. The yolk also a great source of protein and important nutrients. The yolk is where the debate begins.
The yolk is the yellow center of the egg that contains cholesterol and a nutrient called Choline. Most doctors and scientist agree that the cholesterol in the egg yolks can lead to a risk of increasing the “bad” cholesterol or the low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The “Choline is an essential nutrient that can impact liver function, brain development, muscle movement, and the nervous system” (Brown, 2018). It is the Choline’s link to the liver that leads some scientist to believe that eating too many eggs can increase the risk of developing diabetes. These two components in eggs, are what lead doctors to caution people.
In 2018, Harvard Health Publishing posted an article with two new studies. One study was conducted with individuals that were either prediabetes or diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The study was conducted over a 3 month period and then a 6 month follow up. Out of the 128 participants, neither the control group nor the group to consume eggs showed a significant difference in the LDL levels.
The second study was conducted with 416,000 individuals with an average age of 50. All of the subjects were free of any heart disease or diabetes and maintained a log of their health for 9 years. The researches found that the subjects that consumed eggs on a regular basis had a lower risk of death from stroke and heart disease. Notable those that consumed “an average of one egg per day had a 28% lower risk of death from stroke and an 18% lower risk of death from heart disease” (Harvard Health Publishing, 2018).
So are eggs a super food or a supervillian?
Think of eggs more as your favorite antihero. Eggs can be part of a health diet when eaten in moderation. As for the perfect number for you, that depends on your specific health and activity level. It is always important to talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet.
closeup of grey electronic cigarette in hand on white background
Are You A Smoker?
Tobacco cigarettes have been around for many many years. It is well known in regards to the dangers what tobacco cigarettes has on the body, such as risk for cancer, heart disease and stroke. Tobacco cigarettes are so dangerous that they kill half of the people who smoke them! However I can agree that cigarette smoking is quite an addiction that is hard to break. The newest smoking gadget on the market is a vape. If you haven’t heard of it yet, a vape is an electronic cigarette used very commonly as an alternative to tobacco smoking. There have been many beliefs about whether vapes are less harmful, just as harmful, or even more harmful then regular tobacco cigarettes.
The amount of people who use electronic cigarettes such as vapes are increasing around the world. It is noted that electronic cigarettes are believed to be less harmful then regular cigarettes but not necessarily harmless. Electronic cigarettes can still contain the addicting ingredient nicotine, but are still believed to be less harm then smoking tobacco cigarettes. The acute effects of electronic cigarettes were primarily believed to be respiratory irritation caused by the ingredient vitamin E acetate- which has luckily been recently removed from the market.
Are You Thinking Of Quitting?
Electronic cigarettes such as a vape/juul are widely used by the general population. According to to the research, the long-term effects of electronic cigarettes are still unknown. The video above demonstrates a video on how electronic cigarettes can be more harmful then what we think. It is no secret that smoking regardless if it is an electronic cigarette or tobacco cigarette, it is harmful in many ways, as it effects your lungs and can lead to further health issues. The media above explains the carcinogens that are found in electronic cigarettes, making them just as harmful as regular cigarettes. This same media clip supports the research that talks about vitamin E acetate leading to electronic cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury. Although it is believed that the vitamin E acetate was removed from the market, there are no federal regulations that limit the chemicals used in electronic cigarettes or even require the manufacturers to assure the safety of their products. Therefore it is possible that the vitamin E acetate is still being used in electronic cigarettes, or will be used again in the future.
Many people may be using an electronic cigarettes as an “alternative” to tobacco cigarettes. If you want to quit smoking, don’t reach for the vape’s as a “healthier” option. Speak with your doctor about different forms of smoking cessation. Your body will thank you later!
References
Buckell, J., & Sindelar, J. L. (2019). The impact of flavors, health risks, secondhand smoke and prices on young adults’ cigarette and e-cigarette choices: a discrete choice experiment. Addiction, 114(8), 1427-1435.
Cobb, N. K., & Solanki, J. N. (2020). E-Cigarettes, Vaping Devices and Acute Lung Injury. Respiratory Care, 65(5), 713-718.
“Vaping is more harmful than you think” Youtube, Demystifying, 28 November 2019 [Video]
Wilson, S., Partos, T., McNeill, A., & Brose, L. S. (2019). Harm perceptions of e-cigarettes and other nicotine products in a UK sample. Addiction, 114(5), 879-888.
Lissa Rankin, MD found that loneliness predisposes the body to an increased risk of mortality by up to 45%.
In this short video, Lissa Rankin, MD, New York Times bestselling author of Mind Over Medicine, The Fear Cure, and The Anatomy of a Calling, is a physician, speaker, founder of the Whole Health Medicine Institute, and mystic, reveals what she has found in her research on loneliness. She answers the questions ‘What are the greatest risk factors for disease? and What is the most important medicine we need for survival?’ Her answers may surprise you!
What does the CDC say about loneliness?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports the media claim that loneliness and social isolation puts a significant number of people in the united states at risk for dementia and other serious medical conditions, especially among older adults. More than one third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and one fourth of adults 65 and older are socially isolated. Loneliness is defined as the feeling of being alone, regardless of the amount of social contact. Social isolation leads to loneliness, and for some, they can feel lonely without being socially isolated. In addition to the older population, those who are most vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation are immigrants, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LQBT) populations, minorities, and victims of elder abuse. Factors include language barriers, differences in community, family dynamics, stigma, discrimination, and barriers to care.
Health risks of loneliness as reported by the CDC are premature death from all causes, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity, and physical activity. A fifty percent increased risk of dementia. A twenty-nine percent increased risk of heart disease and thirty-two increased risk for stroke. Higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Loneliness among heart failure patients is associated with almost four times increased risk of death, sixty-eight times increased risk for hospitalization, and fifty-seven percent increased risk of emergency department visits.
Interventions that can help to resolve loneliness and social isolation include high-quality social relationships and access to healthcare.
What does the Department of Health and Human Services say about loneliness?
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) supports the media claim that loneliness and social isolation can lead to medical issues such as cognitive decline, depression, and heart disease. We as human beings are social and our connections to others enables us to survive and thrive. The NIAs conducted research has found that loneliness is a risk for poor aging outcomes. The NIA supports that loneliness and social isolation are not one in the same; Of the 28 percent or 13.8 million people who live alone are not lonely. On the other hand, many people who are surrounded by family and friends report feeling lonely. In addition to heart disease, the NIA reports that loneliness puts people at an increased risk for high blood pressure, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, Alzheimer’s, and death. People who engage in meaningful activities have been reported to live longer, are happier, and have a sense of purpose. When looking at biology of loneliness, when people are lonely, they tend to feel threatened and mistrust others, which activates a biological defense mechanism. This defense mechanism alters our cells in the immune system to promote inflammation, which is necessary for our bodies to heal from injury. People who feel lonely may also have weakened immune cells which can prevent the body from fighting off viruses.
What does the American Psychological Association say about loneliness?
An article published by the American Psychological Association (APA) supports the media claim that loneliness effects our physical, mental, and cognitive health. Nearly half of 20,000 United States adults report that they sometimes or always feel alone. In a survey conducted by the APA, participants reported that they sometimes or always feel their relationships are not meaningful which causes them to feel isolated. The article states that lack of meaningful social connections heightens health risks to as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day or having Alcohol use Disorder. In addition, loneliness and social isolation are twice as harmful to physical and mental health as obesity and significantly increases the risk of premature mortality. The effects of loneliness and social isolation exceed the risk of many other leading health indicators and can lead to depression, poor sleep quality, impaired executive function, accelerated cognitive decline, poor cardiovascular function, stroke, dementia, and impaired immunity at every stage in life. A study published in this article found that the leukocytes of lonely participants showed an increased expression of genes involved in inflammation and decreased expression of genes involved in antiviral responses. In addition, data analyzed from more than 580,000 adults found that social isolation and loneliness increases the risk of premature death from every cause for every race. The article suggests that more social interaction and less family strain can help to reduce feelings of loneliness in older adults. Other efforts to minimize loneliness can start at home by teaching children that being alone does not mean loneliness.
Can Loneliness be cured?
WE DON’T KNOW!!! However..
Befriend yourself
We must heal shame and perfectionism for ourselves and others
Own our stuff
Be vulnerable
Take risks
“Bench press” our receiving muscles
Hold space for others (be present, withhold judgement, listen generously)
It’s not about the quantity, but the quality!
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, April 29). Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html.
Novotney, A. (2019, May). The risks of social isolation. Monitor on Psychology. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/05/ce-corner-isolation.
TEDxTalks. (2016, September 28). The #1 Public Health Issue Doctors Aren’t Talking About | Lissa Rankin | TEDxFargo. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2hLhWSlOl0.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2019, April 23). Social isolation, loneliness in older people pose health risks. National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks#:~:text=Health%20effects%20of%20social%20isolation,Alzheimer’s%20disease%2C%20and%20even%20death.
When summertime comes around, the main thing on everyone’s mind is getting outdoors and enjoying the warm sunshine and fresh air. However, the damaging effects and risk factors too much sun can have on a person’s skin is often forgotten. Applying sunscreen is something that is widely promoted and understood. However; the type of sunscreen being used and how often to apply it are some misunderstood issues.
How to protect against the sun:
Shade: staying in the shade as opposed to the sun can help significantly lower risk of damage. Using shade from and umbrella, tree or other kind of covering will reduce the amount of direct sunlight the body experiences.
Clothing: Covering skin with clothing is also a very effective way to protect against the sun, some clothing even has SPF infused in it. There are a few options when it comes to wearing protective clothing, long or short sleeves. It is not commonly known but wet clothing offers less protection than dry and darker colors protect better than light colors, despite the stigma around dark colors attracting more sunlight.
Sunglasses: Although protecting the skin is very important, another issue that is often overlooked is protecting the eyes. Too much sun exposure to the eyes can cause a person to develop cataracts.
Sunscreen: The most common form of protection against the sun is sunscreen. It does not matter what form of sunscreen you use whether it is lotion or spray, as it has at least 15 SPF. Sun protection factor is the number that rates how well the sunscreen will protect against the UVR. As the numbers get higher the more protection it provides. Research from the FDA shows that SPF 50 should be the highest used number because there is no evidence that anything greater than 50 gives more protection. Although some sunscreens have more SPF than others, reapplication is still important. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, if not more frequently. When swimming and sweating, it should be applied more frequently even if the brand says waterproof.
Are there negative effects of sunscreen?
There are many myths and rumors behind the chemical compounds and make up of sunscreens. There have been sources that state sunscreen can cause vitamin deficiencies or is linked to other conditions such as endometriosis in women. Researches put out that sunscreen blocks the synthesis of vitamin D, which is gained naturally from the sun, therefore causing vitamin D deficiencies. That statement has been debunked showing that it only really happens in older people or those who are inappropriately applying the sunscreen. As far as the chemical make up of the sunscreen, there are no significant studies showing that it has caused detrimental conditions or toxicities. It is recommended to use a mineral based sunscreen if possible, because overall it is better for the body and skin to use any type of product that has minimal artificial ingredients.
Overall,the positive benefits of sunscreen and proper SPF outweighs the risks that come from the sun and skin damage. So, Remember to apply your sunscreen and apply it generously!
Resources:
NIERENGARTEN, M. B. (2014). FDA’s sunscreen recommendations. Contemporary Pediatrics, 31(10), 36–38.
RUBINO, J. (2014). LIGHT work. Delicious Living, 30(7), 47–48.
Burnett, M.E. and Wang, S.Q. (2011), Current sunscreen controversies: a critical review. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, 27: 58-67. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0781.2011.00557.x
It is no secret that cigarettes are bad for your health. In fact, it is nearly impossible to get through the day without encountering some form of advertisement that detests the use of cigarettes for a variety of reasons. So, if we know cigarettes can cause cancer, COPD, heart disease, and what seems to be a million other problems, why do people continue to smoke? Of course, it’s because nicotine is highly addictive! However, seven out of ten individuals who report regular consumption of nicotine products report that they would like to quit if they could. But, wait… You’ve heard of people quitting cigarettes, right? Aunts and uncles, friends, maybe even your coworkers– So, what is the secret to quitting?
One of the newest products on the market is advertised to provide just what smokers need to quit smoking. What is it you ask? electronic cigarettes!
As you can see, companies are letting the public believe that electronic cigarettes are the answer to their nicotine addiction
Even celebrities are proclaiming their happiness and relief that electronic cigarettes are bringing into their lives.
However, There is Always a Catch…
If we were to step back in time and analyze the early stages of cigarette marketing, there is a strikingly similar theme.
A magazine from 1952 promotes the use of popular new brand of cigarettes. This advertisement made Lucky Strikes a must have!
Another popular advertisement dated back to 1949 displays Lucille Ball and how she adores her favorite brand of cigarettes.
Is anyone else experiencing déjà vu?
For a moment, think about how the timeline of cigarette usage has occurred. First cigarettes were glamorized in the eye of the public through various forms of advertisement. Currently, cigarettes are shamed by the public because of their harmful and even life threatening effects.
Now I want you to explore the current stance on electronic cigarettes. Everyone uses them and they are supposedly far ‘better’ than traditional cigarettes. While it’s too early to know what the long term effects of E-cigarettes may be, we can still predict that history will repeat itself.
What Does Evidence Suggest?
1. Electronic Cigarettes are Still not Safe.
E-Cigarettes are found to contain the same harmful ingredients that regular cigarettes have. When people first started purchasing and using cigarettes, they had no real understanding of what was packed into them. Now, we are experiencing the same situation with electronic cigarettes. Studies identify that adults that smoke Electronic Cigarettes still increase your likelihood of developing symptoms associated with various respiratory disorders including asthma and COPD.
2. Electronic Cigarettes are Just as Addictive!
Not only is the primary ingredient in all forms of electronic cigarettes nicotine, there is a much higher concentration of this addictive substance within each cartridge. E-cigarettes are also more convenient for smokers to use because they cease to create a long lasting cloud of smoke or any strong odors. While this is appealing to smokers, it’s also frightening to think that nicotine consumption will increase because people can smoke anywhere, at any time.
3. Our Youth is Being Exposed to E-Cigarettes.
E-cigarettes have become a new trend for teenagers and young adults. Studies have suggested that teenagers with an extremely low or no risk at all for developing a smoking addictions have become addicted to e-cigarettes. Marketers have clearly picked up on their new targeted audience and have introduced flavors like watermelon, apple, and even fruit punch to appeal to younger users. Clearly, these products are creating counterproductive results.
Are you Trying to Quit?
If you were planning on quitting smoking with the use of electronic cigarettes, don’t panic! There are tons of other options! First, consult with your doctor for advice to see what may work best for your health. It’s also a great idea to talk with friends and family to develop a plan that will help support you during this journey.
If you’re looking for some simple strategies that have worked for other people, take a look at this inspiring video.
What Can we Learn from This?
If you haven’t already made the connection, now is the time to acknowledge that we should always question and research what we are consuming. It is clear that products can be marketed as healthy when they are actually harming us. Take the first step and stop using nicotine products!
References
Bircan, E., Bezirhan, U., Porter, A., Fagan, P., & Orloff, M. S. (2021). Electronic cigarette use and its association with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma-COPD overlap syndrome among never cigarette smokers. Tobacco Induced Diseases, 19, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.18332/tid/132833M.
Blaha, M., (2021) 5 vaping facts you need to know. John Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-truths-you-need-to-know-about-vaping
R., N. A., T. M., T. A. M., M. N., N. ’Ayn, M. R., D., A. B., M. F., R., S., A. R., Z., M. S., N., & H., J. (2021). Knowledge, attitude and practice on electronic cigarette and their associated factors among undergraduate students in a public university. IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia, 20(2), 43–51. https://doi.org/10.31436/imjm.v20i2.1883
Wang, R. J., Bhadriraju, S., & Glantz, S. A. (2021). E-cigarette use and adult cigarette smoking cessation: A meta-analysis. American Journal of Public Health, 111(2), 230–246. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2020.305999
7 Ways to get past nicotine cravings. (2017). YouTube. https://youtu.be/kJasaMlgzNs.
Does your child cover their ears from loud noises?
Are they constantly being unsafe or too cautious?
Do tags on clothes often bother them?
These are possible signs and symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).
What is SPD you ask…?
So, SPD does not look the same? Why can two people who are both diagnosed with SPD be polar opposites?
There are TWO types of Sensory Processing Disorder
Sensory Avoiding “the shy ones”
Goes to quiet places
Avoids crowds
Does not like tags on clothing
Anxious around new people
Refuses to try new foods or does not like the texture
Sensory Seeking “the wild ones”
Seeks physical touch (hugging or rough play)
Constant touching items
Always moving
Clumsy or off-balance
Increased resistance for pain
Fact. We have 7 senses!
Vision
Hearing
Taste
Touch
Smell
Vestibular (balance)
Proprioception (body awareness)
Vestibular (movement) where our head and body is in relation to space. This is how we sit, stand, walk, and run.
Proprioception (body position) understanding our body awareness in relation to space. Helps us with knowing how much pressure to apply. For example, when inserting a straw into a juice box. Too much force will cause the juice to go everywhere.
Take a look below at A Day in the Life of a Child with SPD
Our environment plays a key role. Certain lights, noises, smells, texture, and taste can lead to an overload which in this case means a “sensory overload”. This can lead to an individual acting out.
Specialists Who Work with SPD
Occupational Therapists
Social Workers
Child psychologists
References
Wilmot , K. (2021, March 27). Understanding Sensory Processing Issues. Understood. https://www.understood.org/en/learning-thinking-differences/child-learning-disabilities/sensory-processing-issues/understanding-sensory-processing-issues?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=evrgrn-may20-fm&gclid=CjwKCAjwmv-DBhAMEiwA7xYrd6Sy7m_B_laQ6CRuI3A5jxg5d_PWkAwr–3-cpjpANWGck7QnS9EdxoC5FoQAvD_BwE.
Z, M., & S, S.-R. (2021, March 29). Learn Sensory Integration Basics: Sensory Integration Tools. Pathways.org. https://pathways.org/topics-of-development/sensory/?gclid=CjwKCAjwmv-DBhAMEiwA7xYrdyOeLs6oS9rBotIou1581uysmAHOml-uGag-w0icg_6sY0ICbyXkuxoCxRAQAvD_BwE.
Common Myths About Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema.
People who have underwent lymph node removal surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment after breast cancer have a one in five chance of developing lymphedema. There are many misconceptions after being diagnosed with lymphedema after breast cancer. 40% of women diagnosed with breast cancer will experience breast cancer related lymphedema. There is many outdated misinformation about treatment options, symptoms, and living a good quality of life.
Debunking The Myths
Myth #1:There is nothing you can do after a diagnosis of breast cancer related lymphedema as there are no treatment options.
This myth is untrue. Although there is no cure for breast cancer related lymphedema, there are
many treatment options. One treatment option is manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) treatment for people with breast cancer related lymphedema.Studies have conducted research comparing and adding MLD to compression bandaging. The study concluded that MLD is safe and made significant improvement in swelling when added to compression bandaging in women with mild-to-moderate symptoms of lymphedema.According to this study, people with mild-to-moderate symptoms benefit from MLD. MLD is a beneficial way for people with breast-cancer related lymphedema to mange their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Another treatment is called complete decongestive therapy (CDT). Studies have found significant improvement in arm function, swelling, and ADL performance of patients being treated with CDT, thus increasing their quality of life. CDT involves skin care, manual lymphatic drainage, bandages and compression, patient education, and exercise to increased range of motion in affected upper extremity. Patients in phase one of lymphedema have the most improvement, noting that getting treatment early is key in managing breast cancer related lymphedema. You may have this done my a certified lymphedema specialist.
Myth #2:There is no quality of life as breast cancer related lymphedema is unmanageable.
Women with breast cancer related lymphedema can manage symptoms and take control of their lives. This video shows Annie Race who has been suffering from breast cancer-related lymphedema since the 90´s. She has been dealing with lymphedema for 23 years and she, as as well as doctors, give advice on how to manage lymphedema, such as compression garments and therapy throughout the week. She started to manage her symptoms early on which helped her increase her decrease her symptoms increasing her quality of life.
Myth #3: Breast cancer related lymphedema would not improve with compression garments.
False: Compression garments are an important part of lymphedema self care, especially in patients with mild-to-moderate lymphedema. Well-fitted compression garments that are replaced every three to six months will effectively prevent lymphedema progression. A study was conducted research comparing compression bandaging to manual lymphatic drainage. The study concluded that a combination of using compression bandages and manual lymphatic drainage for treatment was safe and had significant results when combining the treatments. This helped reduce swelling in women with mild-to-moderate symptoms of lymphedema. Results from the study indicate facts and provides evidence that compression bandages can improve a patient’s quality of life.
Before and after compression garments:
With many myths and misinformation about breast cancer related lymphedema, it is important to do research and learn about the benefits of treatments and that it is possible to live with and manage lymphedema. This knowledge will allow you live your best quality of life with the least amount of symptoms.
Ezzo, J., Manheimer, E., McNeely, M. L., Howell, D. M., Weiss, R., Johansson, K. I., Bao, T., Bily, L., Tuppo, C. M., Williams, A. F., Karadibak, D., & Ezzo, J. (n.d.). Manual lymphatic drainage for lymphedema following breast cancer treatment. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 5.
Kostanoglu, A., & Tarakcı, E. (2021). Physical therapy enhances functions and quality of life in older patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema: A prospective experimental study. Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice, 24(3) 387–392.
Sun, Y., & Armer, J. M. (2019). A nurse’s twenty-four-year journey with breast cancer-related lymphedema. Work, 63(1), 21–31. https://doi.org/10.3233/WOR-192904
You may have heard about “aging in place”, which is a movement to keep older adults living at home as long as possible. With this comes risks, fears, and worries for both family members and individuals themselves. The most common reason for hospitalizations in the older adult population are injuries due to falling. Making some minor changes to your environment and staying healthy and active will greatly decrease your chance of falling.
Let’s talk facts
1 in 3 adults age 65 and older fall every year
Falling is one of the most common causes of injuries affecting older people in residential care or home setting
Functional loss of strength and balance increases your risk for falls
You’re at risk for falling if:
You’ve had at least one fall in the past year
You have difficulty walking
You have trouble seeing
You have a health condition
You have a fear of falling
When it comes to reducing your risk of falling at home, you may be overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. To ease this transition, The National Council on Aging identifies six basic steps to prevent future falls.
While those six ways to prevent falls are a great place to start, it’s important to understand that falling can happen when we are least expecting it, and sometimes even when we have done all the right things to prevent them. This occupational therapist demonstrates various scenarios that could potentially cause a fall within your home- and some of which you may have never even thought about!
Where am I most likely to fall in my house?
Let’s talk about one major area in your home that has the most potential for falling. Yes, it’s true… the bathroom! The best ways to alter your bathroom for increased safety are:
Put nonslip mats in the tub or shower floor
Install grab bars on the walls for easy transfers into and out of the shower
Purchase (or rent!) a raised toilet seated for easier transfers on and off the toilet
Put frequently used items at eye level on the counter so you don’t need to bend down
Here’s a video of a woman who experienced a fall and changed the way her bathroom functioned for increased safety.
Aside from bathroom safety, it’s important to realize other areas in your home that could be a fall risk. Removing things like area rugs, electrical cords, clutter, and improving the lighting can significantly reduce your risk of falling. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has released a checklist that is incredibly beneficial and allows you to think of other situations that you might not have on your own.
What else can I do?
Make sure that you are getting regular eye and foot exams by your doctors. Proper vision enhances your ability to view your environment completely and realistically. Vision problems like double vision, poor clarity, macular degeneration, and glaucoma can affect your central or peripheral vision and the way we navigate various places.
Getting your feet checked regularly is equally as important. Making sure you have complete feeling in your feet, short toenails, and no open sores is imperative for walking, turning, and maintaining your balance within your home. Your doctor can also recommend supportive footwear to wear around your house and outside in the community.
Exercise! Engage in a physical activity program that will increase your strength, balance, and coordination. This will help you stay upright and confident when navigating different environments to ensure you are not going to fall. Exercises that you may benefit from include:
Yoga
Strength training
Aerobics
Cardiovascular exercise (i.e. walking, cycling)
Swimming
Pilates
Tai Chi
https://eldergym.com/leg-exercises/
Ask your healthcare provider what’s best for you!
Now what?
Make the changes! You’ve got the tools and knowledge to decrease your risk of falling and enhance your home to make it as safe as possible. Don’t be afraid to ask a family member or friend to help assist you with this process, and then rest easy knowing that you’ve done your part to reduce your risk of falling. Most importantly, know that living at home as you age without falling IS possible!
____________________________________________
References
Center for Disease Control. (2017). Check for safety a home fall prevention checklist for older adults [Brochure]. https://www.cdc.gov/steadi/pdf/STEADI-Brochure-CheckForSafety-508.pdf
Chippendale, Tracy. (2019). Feasibility of the stroll safe outdoor fall prevention program. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 73, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2019.031294
Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare. (2014). Bathroom safety for elderly: protect a loved one before a bathroom fall occurs [Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kSmG2d7gS4
Gutman, S. A., Amarantos, K., Berg, J., Aponte, M., Gordilla, D., Rice, C., Smith, J., Perry, A.,Willa, T., Chen, E., Peters, R., Schluger, Z. (2018). Home safety fall and accident risk among prematurely aging, formerly homeless adults. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72, 1-9.
Kachhwaha, R., Sriraghunath, S., Arunkumar, Arunkumar, D., & Vyas, I. (2018). A study to analyze the efficacy of strength training exercise for fall related gait kinematics in elderly — an experimental study. Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, 12 (4), 101-106. DOI Number: 10.5958/0973- 5674.2018.00088.6
National Council on Aging. (2015). 6 Steps to prevent a fall [Video].
The Myths of the chronic increasing rate of Obesity Epidemic within American Culture.
What considers a person obese?
To understand what considers a person obese in America, we need to understand what establishes a person to be “overweight” versus “healthy weight”. This is constructed by a person’s body mass index (BMI). A person’s BMI is the measurement of your body fat, based on your height. America is an industrialized country and is only becoming more advanced with technology and its culture has had a negative effect on the health of its people. How can we take control of our own bodies and manage our health with a busy routine? There are myths that contribute to false impressions on causes of obesity within American culture.
These are some comorbidities associated with Obesity:
Heart disease
Stroke
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Cancer
Gallbladder disease
Osteoarthritis
Gout
Sleep Apnea and Asthma
Myth 1: Healthcare Systems and Nutrition programs are beneficial to decreasing the rate of Obesity in America.
According to the article, Understanding Obesity Perceptions in America: An Exploratory Study of Public Perceptions of the Problem and Possible Actions for Health Product Marketers. Hospital Topics, the research examines the rate of obesity within the United States (US). The study conducted examines society’s perception of the epidemic of obesity. The study analyzes society’s perception on obesity and the implications on health product marketers as an attribution for financial gain based on obese consumers. The vast majority agreed that obesity is in association to consumers using the epidemic to create financial gain on health products. Furthermore, the conclusion of the study confirms that there are not enough preventative measures to decrease the high rising cases of obesity within the US, rather financial gain based on demographics and socioeconomic status of these individuals (2015, Emmett, Chandra). Many marketing industries and even healthcare benefit off the obesity epidemic in America. There is a large market on selling diet pills, supplements, and medical procedures as solutions. Weight gain is easily gained due to lifestyle and environment.
Myth 2: Americans are lazy!
Sedentary lifestyle has become one of the norms in American culture. It has become routine for Americans to be inactive due to industrialization, context, and environmental factors. Many Americans must drive from one place to another due to far distance or unsafe environmental conditions that inhibit walking or bicycling to get to a destination. Unhealthy foods with high calories are easily accessed and promoted within our culture. Americans are also eating out more or have access to less nutritional options based on their socioeconomic status.
This video sheds light on American culture contributing to the Obesity Epidemic:
Americans are not lazy. Many Americans have false information in regards to weight management. We have little access and resources on creating an active lifestyle. As technology advances, we are becoming more inactive. Obesity is a major chronic issue in America and is continuing to advance. Obesity has created new opportunities for financial greed within healthcare systems and marketing companies targeting vulnerability of this population. Incorporating and advocating for an active lifestyle and healthier nutrition options need to be implemented within American culture in order decrease the obesity epidemic.
Bassett, D. R., Pucher., J., & Buehler,R. (2011). Active Transportation in Europe, Northern America, and Austraila. ITE Journal, (81 (8), 5-1-5-5.
CDCStreamingHealth. (2011, July 15). The Obesity Epidemic. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCORDl4bqDE.
Dr. Robert H.Lustig: The Obesity Epidemic in America: Nahmad Speaker Series. YouTube. (2016, October 7). https://youtu.be/EnnZp1Z9C1I.
Emmett, D., & Chandra, A. (2015). Understanding Obesity Perceptions in America: An Exploratory Study of Public Perceptions of the Problem and Possible Actions for Health Product Marketers. Hospital Topics, 93(4), 92–98. https://doi.org/10.1080/00185868.2015.1120100
Gemmill, E., & Cotugna, N. (2005). Vending Machine Policies and Practices in Delaware. Journal of School Nursing, 21(2), 94–99.
In the last few years a lot of hype about natural and safe anti-perspirants have become a popular subject. More specifically, the chat around which ones are safe, what ingredients are being used and what they can do to the body has been plastered all over the internet. When this conversation began and the advertisements for ditching your current deodorant popped up, I’ll be the first to say that I tossed mine. Why, you ask? Well, I read a few articles that told me the main ingredient “aluminum” was toxic and that it could cause breast cancer. PUMP THE BREAKS! My mind was spinning. I began wondering exactly what the deodorant I was buying (Dove) could possibly be doing to my body in secrecy and I wanted no part of it! It said that aluminum is the main sweat blocking ingredient. That sounds odd. I was scared. Is this stuff regulated? What else is in this stuff? I switched to the NATIVE brand in the mean time since all of the social media told me it was a better, safer choice.
The switch in brands was costly:
Native – $12.00
Dove – $6.00
But I figured for the wealth of my health, I’ll spend the money. Am I right?
Time passed and the advertisements continued. New articles were telling me that Native was bad now too! WHAT? WHY? Apparently it had synthetic fragrances. So what to do?
Well, I got to researching the topic … here’s the bad stuff that I found along with the myths.
Dangerous ingredients suspected to be linked the breast cancer claim:
Parabéns (helps to preserve life span)
Aluminum (thickening agent)
Triclosan (antibacterial agent)
Phthalates (chemical to increase longevity)
But is that enough to go running for the hills? No. If there is anything I have learned in the age of social media, it is to keep researching and find reputable studies because anyone can post their thoughts or assumptions online. Don’t believe everything you read at first glance. There may be more than meets the eye..
Myth#1 – Most Popular deodorant ingredients causes breast cancer. NOPE!! Many studies/videos addressing these ingredients say THERE IS NO SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE BEHIND THIS! They debunked the claim! YES, most ingredients in popular deodorants are NOT great, that is for sure, BUT, is there proof it is directly linked to causing breast cancer? Nope. Sorry. Breast cancer is still primarily linked to genetics and the many studies of participants who were diagnosed with cancer that used aluminum based deodorants vs. those in other countries who didn’t use deodorant at all were still at an equal risk.
Myth#2 – All natural deodorants are super safe since they removed the aluminum ! (Like Native and Toms for example). NOT TRUE!! Many of them are just holding on to other sneaky ingredients like synthetic fragrances which are not good for us, not regulated by the FDA and have been linked to birth defects, allergies and issues with the nervous system.
Check out this video for the break down of my myth busting research.
What it comes down it is that may be more of a marketing scheme to keep up with the latest “natural” ans vegan fads this generation has grown to worship. While I believe there are many dangers to the things we put in and on our body, we can’t believe everything we see.
Furthermore, I wanted more info on these natural deordants. They are all holding on to some sort of SNEAKY ingredients and seemingly making it seem like they are super safe and friendly. The NATIVE brand that was raging to be the best thing since sliced bread wasn’t much better! It seems I got rid of one evil con to find some in another less evil con.
Check out this quick pic for my point:
Conclusion:
They all have some funky ingredient that’s not great for our bodies. All in all, choose the all natural product IF you PREFER less ingredients but don’t do it because you think it is 100% safer and will keep you free from breast cancer. It’s not a guarantee. Aluminum based deodorants do not have a direct correlation to this cancer.
I switched back to Dove because they now offer various types, even an aluminum free option and its better on my wallet.
